We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

9 Best Ewi Instrument 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

AKAI Professional EWI5000 - Wireless, Battery-Powered MIDI Controller Electronic Wind Instrument With On-Board Sound Library

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,109
Sound Engine
Fingerings

Most important from
597 reviews

Sound Engine
The built-in sounds are impressive, providing a good range of options.
Fingerings
There is a learning curve, especially with the EWI-style fingerings, but it's worth it for the various sounds it can create.

The AKAI Professional EWI5000 is a highly portable electronic wind instrument designed for professional musicians. It features a sophisticated sound engine with a 3 GB onboard sound library, providing a wide range of acoustic and synthesized sounds developed by SONiVOX. This makes it versatile for different musical genres and performance settings.

The instrument supports multiple fingering modes, making it adaptable to various playing styles, which can be a significant advantage for musicians familiar with traditional wind instruments like the saxophone or flute. The breath sensitivity and ultra-responsive mouthpiece, equipped with air-pressure and bite sensors, enhance the expressiveness of the performance, allowing for nuanced control over the sound produced.

Connectivity is a strong point for the EWI5000, offering both 2.4 GHz wireless and USB-MIDI options. This wireless capability, along with a rechargeable battery, provides freedom and flexibility for live performances without being tethered to cables.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,109
Sound Engine
Fingerings

Most important from
597 reviews

Sound Engine
The built-in sounds are impressive, providing a good range of options.
Fingerings
There is a learning curve, especially with the EWI-style fingerings, but it's worth it for the various sounds it can create.
#2

AKAI Professional EWI Solo - Electronic Wind Instrument With Built-in Speaker, Rechargeable Battery, 200 Sounds and USB MIDI Connectivity,Black

Rating
9.8
Sound Engine
Fingerings
Portability

Most important from
597 reviews

Sound Engine
The built-in sounds are pretty good and there's a wide variety of tutorials on YouTube to help you get the most out of it.
Fingerings
There's a learning curve with the EWI style fingerings, but it's worth it for the versatility it offers.
Portability
It's important to get a good case as these instruments are not very roadworthy, especially at this price point.

The AKAI Professional EWI Solo is a versatile electronic wind instrument that caters to musicians of all skill levels. One of its standout features is the built-in sound engine, offering 200 different acoustic and synth sounds, which provides a vast range for creativity. The inclusion of a built-in speaker and rechargeable lithium-ion battery with over 12 hours of playtime enhances its portability, making it convenient for both practice and performance without needing extra equipment.

Connectivity is also a strong point, featuring USB-MIDI for software instrument control, a 1/4" audio output, 1/8" headphone output, and 1/8" auxiliary input, which allows for flexible integration with various devices and setups. The OLED display adds ease in viewing presets and parameters, making adjustments straightforward. Breath sensitivity is well-handled with responsive air-pressure and bite sensors, ensuring that dynamics and expressions are accurately captured. The dedicated FX and edit controls further allow for personalizing the sound to suit individual styles. Fingerings for flute, oboe, sax, and EVI (Electronic Valve Instrument) modes make it adaptable for musicians familiar with different wind instruments.

However, there are some potential drawbacks. While the instrument's lightweight (1.89 pounds) is a benefit for portability, some users might find the plastic build less durable compared to traditional instruments. Additionally, the speaker quality, while convenient, may not suffice for all performance settings, requiring external amplification for larger venues. The product's price point might also be a consideration for hobbyists or beginners on a budget. Despite these points, the AKAI Professional EWI Solo is a comprehensive and flexible tool for electronic wind instrument players, offering a good balance of features for both practice and performance settings.

Rating
9.8
Sound Engine
Fingerings
Portability

Most important from
597 reviews

Sound Engine
The built-in sounds are pretty good and there's a wide variety of tutorials on YouTube to help you get the most out of it.
Fingerings
There's a learning curve with the EWI style fingerings, but it's worth it for the versatility it offers.
Portability
It's important to get a good case as these instruments are not very roadworthy, especially at this price point.
#3

Yamaha Digital Saxophone (YDS-150)

Rating
9.6
Sound Engine
Breath Sensitivity
Connectivity

Most important from
324 reviews

Sound Engine
The sound quality doesn't fully replicate the richness of an acoustic saxophone, lacking nuanced tone changes.
Breath Sensitivity
The breath control is highly responsive, adding an authentic feel to playing.
Connectivity
Bluetooth and AUX connectivity options make it easy to integrate with other devices for enhanced playability.
Portability
Ideal for saxophonists dealing with noise issues or looking for a convenient travel instrument.

The Yamaha YDS-150 Digital Saxophone is a versatile instrument that caters to musicians of all skill levels. One of its standout features is the acoustic saxophone mouthpiece combined with traditional fingerings, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced players. The sound engine offers 73 preset voices, allowing users to explore a wide range of sounds, which can be particularly appealing for those looking to experiment with different musical styles. Its compact design and portability mean you can play it virtually anywhere, which is a significant advantage for on-the-go musicians or those with limited practice space.

Breath sensitivity adds an authentic feel, enabling players to express themselves more naturally. Connectivity options, including headphone, AUX in, and micro USB, provide great flexibility for practice without disturbing others, as well as for connecting to other devices for enhanced playability.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the sound quality is generally good, it may not fully replicate the richness of an acoustic saxophone, which might be a concern for traditionalists. Additionally, some users may find the weight of 7.1 pounds slightly cumbersome for extended play sessions. Although the dedicated app allows for customization, it may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a straightforward playing experience. This digital saxophone is a suitable choice for those seeking a modern, portable instrument that can adapt to various musical styles while being mindful of its limitations in sound depth compared to traditional saxophones.

Rating
9.6
Sound Engine
Breath Sensitivity
Connectivity

Most important from
324 reviews

Sound Engine
The sound quality doesn't fully replicate the richness of an acoustic saxophone, lacking nuanced tone changes.
Breath Sensitivity
The breath control is highly responsive, adding an authentic feel to playing.
Connectivity
Bluetooth and AUX connectivity options make it easy to integrate with other devices for enhanced playability.
Portability
Ideal for saxophonists dealing with noise issues or looking for a convenient travel instrument.

Buying Guide for the Best Ewi Instrument

Choosing the right EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument) can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. EWIs are versatile instruments that allow wind players to explore a wide range of sounds and styles. When selecting an EWI, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find an instrument that complements your playing style and musical goals.
Sound EngineThe sound engine is the heart of the EWI, responsible for generating the instrument's sounds. It is important because it determines the quality and variety of sounds you can produce. Sound engines can range from simple, with a limited number of preset sounds, to complex, with extensive sound libraries and customization options. If you are a beginner, a simpler sound engine with high-quality presets might be sufficient. Advanced players might prefer a more sophisticated engine that allows for greater sound manipulation and a wider range of tones.
FingeringsFingerings refer to the way you play notes on the EWI, similar to how you would on a traditional wind instrument. This spec is crucial because it affects how comfortable and intuitive the instrument feels to play. EWIs often offer multiple fingering modes, such as saxophone, flute, or clarinet fingerings. If you are transitioning from a specific wind instrument, choosing an EWI with a familiar fingering mode can make the learning curve easier. For those without a wind instrument background, selecting an EWI with a versatile or customizable fingering system can be beneficial.
Breath SensitivityBreath sensitivity measures how the EWI responds to the player's breath pressure, which is essential for expressive playing. This spec is important because it allows for dynamic control over volume and tone, similar to an acoustic wind instrument. Breath sensitivity can vary from basic to highly responsive. Beginners might start with a moderate level of sensitivity to get used to the feel, while experienced players might prefer high sensitivity for more nuanced control and expressiveness.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how the EWI can be used with other devices, such as amplifiers, computers, or MIDI controllers. This spec is important for integrating the EWI into different performance and recording setups. Common connectivity options include USB, MIDI, and audio outputs. If you plan to use the EWI for live performances, look for models with robust audio outputs. For studio work or digital music production, USB and MIDI connectivity are essential for seamless integration with software and other digital instruments.
Built-in EffectsBuilt-in effects refer to the additional sound processing features available on the EWI, such as reverb, delay, and chorus. These effects are important because they can enhance your sound and add depth to your performance. The range of built-in effects can vary from basic to extensive. If you are looking for simplicity, a model with a few high-quality effects might be sufficient. For more creative control, choose an EWI with a wide range of customizable effects to experiment with different sounds and textures.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size, weight, and power options of the EWI, which affect how easy it is to transport and use on the go. This spec is important for musicians who travel frequently or perform in various locations. EWIs can range from compact and lightweight to larger, more robust models. If you need an instrument that is easy to carry and set up, look for a lightweight model with battery power options. For home or studio use, portability might be less of a concern, allowing you to focus on other features.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now